Suffield Raises Beach Fee

SUFFIELD, CT — Non-residents will now pay more to drive into Babb’s Beach after Suffield officials said increased use has led to rule violations, littering, trespassing and police responses.

The non-resident vehicle gate fee increased to $40 per vehicle as of Wednesday, July 8, according to Suffield Parks and Recreation. The town said additional operational changes will begin Saturday, July 11.

Suffield officials said recent years have brought problems including marijuana use, trespassing onto neighboring private properties, littering on the beach and in the surrounding neighborhood, and behavior that has required police responses.

“These issues have negatively impacted the beach experience for families, created additional maintenance and enforcement demands, and affected nearby residents,” Suffield Parks and Recreation said in a public notice.

Babb’s Beach, located on Lake Congamond, is owned by the Town of Suffield and operated by Suffield Parks and Recreation. The town’s website lists the current summer fee schedule as no charge for Suffield residents and $40 per vehicle for non-residents, up to five people.

Suffield residents must have a park sticker to access the beach at no charge, according to the town. Stickers are available at the Town Clerk’s office during regular business hours and at the entrance gates to Sunrise Park and Babb’s Beach. Proof of Suffield residency is required.

Rules listed by the town include no pets, no alcohol, no smoking, no grilling on the beach, no watercraft on the beachfront and a take-in/take-out garbage policy.

Town officials said the fee increase is intended to better manage beach use, encourage responsible visitation and help keep Babb’s Beach safe, clean and family-friendly for residents and visitors.

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